Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX5161LEZT+T
- Part No.:
- MAX5161LEZT+T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- SOT-23-6 Thin, TSOT-23-6
- Datasheet:
-
MAX5161LEZT+T.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGT POT 50KOHM 32TAP TSOT23-6
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,152
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Product details
Overview
MAX5161LEZT+T from Maxim Integrated is a 6-pin SOT23 digital potentiometer with 32-tap linear taper, 50kΩ end-to-end resistance, ±25% resistance tolerance, and 400Ω wiper resistance. It operates from +2.7V to +5.5V, draws only 135nA supply current, and features glitchless tap switching for LCD contrast adjustment and gain control circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MAX5161LEZT+T datasheet, MAX5161LEZT+T pinout, MAX5161LEZT+T application, or MAX5161LEZT+T equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, terminal roles, real-world use cases in display biasing and op-amp gain tuning, and validated alternative parts for design continuity.
Technical Context
The MAX5161LEZT+T implements a 32-position resistor string between H and L terminals, with wiper (W) shorted internally to H-functioning as a two-terminal variable resistor. Control uses asynchronous 2-wire UP/DN and INC inputs without chip-select logic, enabling direct microcontroller GPIO interfacing.
It features power-on reset to midscale (position 16), ±1LSB DNL and ±0.5LSB INL linearity, 5ppm/°C ratiometric temperature coefficient for stable gain setting, and ±2kV ESD protection on all pins-optimized for low-drift analog trimming in space-constrained industrial displays.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| End-to-End Resistance | 50kΩ - sets maximum adjustable resistance range for gain or bias voltage division |
| Wiper Resistance | 400Ω - limits minimum insertion loss and affects signal integrity in AC-coupled paths |
| Supply Voltage Range | +2.7V to +5.5V - supports direct interface with 3.3V and 5V logic systems without level shifters |
| Supply Current | 135nA at VDD = +5V - enables battery-powered display modules with multi-year operation |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C - qualified for extended-industrial environments including automotive infotainment displays |
| Ratiometric Tempco | 5ppm/°C - ensures <0.05% resistance ratio drift over full temperature range, critical for precision gain control |
| DNL / INL | ±1LSB / ±0.5LSB - guarantees monotonicity and predictable step response in closed-loop calibration systems |
Pinout & Package
Package: 6-pin SOT23 (3.0mm × 1.7mm × 1.3mm height), surface-mount, RoHS-compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (UP/DN) | Direction control input | High = increment wiper position; low = decrement; no pull-up/pull-down required |
| 2 (VDD) | Positive supply | Accepts +2.7V to +5.5V; powers internal counter and resistor array |
| 3 (GND) | Ground reference | Return path for supply and analog terminals; must be low-impedance for tempco stability |
| 4 (INC) | Wiper position clock | High-to-low transition updates wiper position when UP/DN state is latched |
| 5 (H) | High terminal / wiper short | Internally connected to W; forms one end of 2-terminal variable resistor |
| 6 (L) | Low terminal | Fixed end of resistor string; used with H/W for adjustable resistance between L and H |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 2-wire serial interface | Eliminates need for dedicated CS line-reduces MCU GPIO count and simplifies PCB routing |
| Wiper-to-H short | Configures device as true 2-terminal rheostat, removing need for external jumper in gain-setting applications |
| Power-on reset to midscale | Ensures known initial resistance (25kΩ) at startup-prevents display flash or amplifier pop during power cycle |
| Glitchless tap switching | Prevents transient voltage spikes during wiper transitions-critical for noise-sensitive LCD bias rails |
| ±2kV HBM ESD rating | Enables handling and assembly without special ESD controls-reduces manufacturing yield loss |
Applications
| Adjustable LCD Contrast Control | Digitally Tuned Op-Amp Gain |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Setting optimal contrast voltage for monochrome STN or segment LCD panels in industrial HMIs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Two-terminal variable resistor adjusting feedback divider ratio of DC-DC bias generator (e.g., MAX774/MAX775). Use Value: Enables factory calibration and field contrast adjustment via firmware-replaces mechanical trimpots prone to drift and contamination. |
Use Scenario: Configuring programmable gain in sensor signal conditioning front-ends for pressure or temperature transducers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Rheostat in noninverting op-amp feedback path, where resistance value directly sets closed-loop gain (G = 1 + Rpot/Rfixed). Use Value: Achieves <0.05% gain drift over -40°C to +85°C due to 5ppm/°C ratiometric tempco-eliminates recalibration across operating temperature. |
| Mechanical Potentiometer Replacement | Embedded Display Bias Generator |
Use Scenario: Retrofitting legacy analog instruments with digital control while retaining existing PCB layout and analog signal paths. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Drop-in replacement for 50kΩ B-taper mechanical potentiometer in analog voltage offset or zero-adjust circuits. Use Value: Maintains identical resistance range and terminal configuration (H/L/W → H/L with W shorted to H), requiring zero schematic or layout changes. |
Use Scenario: Generating stable, digitally adjustable positive/negative bias voltages for TFT-LCD source drivers in portable medical monitors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision rheostat controlling output voltage of boost/buck-boost converters (e.g., MAX1771, MAX776) in closed-loop feedback. Use Value: Delivers 135nA quiescent current and SOT23 footprint-enables >5-year battery life in handheld diagnostic devices with minimal board area. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital rheostat applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AD5160BRJZ-50-R7 | 3-wire SPI interface; 50kΩ; 10ppm/°C ratiometric tempco; 150nA supply current | Requires dedicated CS and SCLK lines; higher tempco reduces gain stability over temperature | Preferred when SPI bus already exists and higher resolution (256-tap) is needed; not drop-in for 2-wire GPIO control |
| MCP4017T-503E/CH | 6-pin SOT23; I²C interface; 50kΩ; 100ppm/°C end-to-end tempco; 5µA supply current | Higher supply current and tempco limit use in battery-powered or precision gain applications | Suitable for cost-sensitive consumer displays where moderate tempco and I²C availability outweigh low-power needs |
Compared with AD5160BRJZ-50-R7 and MCP4017T-503E/CH, the MAX5161LEZT+T offers the lowest supply current (135nA), tightest ratiometric tempco (5ppm/°C), and simplest 2-wire control-making it optimal for ultra-low-power, high-stability analog trimming where GPIO resources are constrained.
Availability
MAX5161LEZT+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD screen adjustment, volume control, and mechanical potentiometer replacement requiring stable component supply across industrial, medical, and portable electronics programs.
Supply support for MAX5161LEZT+T includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) designs precision analog and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications, with expertise in low-power, high-reliability semiconductor solutions.
The MAX5161LEZT+T belongs to Maxim's digital potentiometer product line, engineered specifically for replacing mechanical trimmers in space-constrained, low-power analog circuits-emphasizing tempco stability, glitch-free operation, and minimal GPIO overhead.
FAQ
What is the pin configuration of the MAX5161LEZT+T?
The MAX5161LEZT+T uses a 6-pin SOT23 package with pins assigned as follows: Pin 1 = UP/DN, Pin 2 = VDD, Pin 3 = GND, Pin 4 = INC, Pin 5 = H (internally shorted to W), Pin 6 = L. This configuration implements a 2-terminal rheostat, eliminating the need for external wiper-to-H connection required by 3-terminal potentiometers.
Does the MAX5161LEZT+T require a chip-select signal?
No, the MAX5161LEZT+T does not require a chip-select (CS) signal. Unlike the 8-pin MAX5160, the MAX5161LEZT+T has CS internally tied to ground, enabling direct 2-wire control using only UP/DN and INC inputs-reducing MCU pin count and simplifying firmware implementation.
What is the wiper resistance specification for the MAX5161LEZT+T?
The MAX5161LEZT+T has a typical wiper resistance of 400Ω, measured between the W and H terminals (which are internally shorted). This value remains stable across temperature and defines the minimum series resistance added when using the device as a rheostat in gain-setting or biasing applications.
How does the power-on reset function in the MAX5161LEZT+T?
At power-up, the MAX5161LEZT+T automatically initializes its wiper to midscale (position 16), resulting in 25kΩ resistance between L and H terminals. This deterministic startup behavior prevents undefined output states in LCD bias or amplifier circuits, eliminating display artifacts or audio pops during system initialization.
Can the MAX5161LEZT+T be used in a 3-terminal potentiometer configuration?
No, the MAX5161LEZT+T cannot be used as a 3-terminal potentiometer because its wiper (W) is permanently shorted to the H terminal internally. It functions exclusively as a 2-terminal variable resistor (rheostat). For 3-terminal operation, the 8-pin MAX5160LEUA or MAX5160LEUT must be selected instead.
MAX5161LEZT+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- SOT-23-6 Thin, TSOT-23-6
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Taper:
- Linear
- Configuration:
- Rheostat
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Number of Taps:
- 32
- Resistance (Ohms):
- 50k
- Interface:
- Up/Down (U/D, INC, CS)
- Memory Type:
- Volatile
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Features:
- -
- Tolerance:
- ±25%
- Temperature Coefficient (Typ):
- 50ppm/°C
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- TSOT-23-6
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Resistance - Wiper (Ohms) (Typ):
- 400
MAX5161LEZT+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX5161LEZT+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX5161LEZT+T on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX5161LEZT+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX5161LEZT+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX5161LEZT+T is usually 5 days.
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Once your MAX5161LEZT+T order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX5161LEZT+T?
For technical support, including MAX5161LEZT+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX5161LEZT+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX5161LEZT+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX5161LEZT+T products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX5161LEZT+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX5161LEZT+T?
All MAX5161LEZT+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX5161LEZT+T, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX5161LEZT+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX5161LEZT+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX5161LEZT+T Tags

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MCP4018T-103E/LT
Microchip Technology

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MCP4018T-503E/LT
Microchip Technology

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MCP4011T-103E/SN
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MCP4018T-104E/LT
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MCP4017T-503E/LT
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MCP4018T-502E/LT
Microchip Technology

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MCP4017T-103E/LT
Microchip Technology

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MCP4531T-103E/MF
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MCP4021T-202E/SN
Microchip Technology

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MCP4023T-103E/CH
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MCP4022T-503E/CH
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MCP4551T-502E/MS
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